Systems and methods for fault-based power signal interruption

Abstract

Systems, methods, and apparatus for fault detection and interruption in power lines are provided. Circuitry is implemented via software and hardware that is configured to sense an operational aspect of a power line and apply signal processing to the sensed operational aspect to detect faults including different types of faults such as transient and steady state faults and can also be configured to identify the type of fault. Information on the fault and the identification of the type of fault can be displayed, stored, or some other output operation can be implemented. Circuitry can be implemented to provide digital signal processing and analog signal processing to, for example, independently and in parallel (e.g., redundant operation) detect faults and respond to faults as they occur (i.e., in real time). The types of faults can include transient type faults that can include ground, arc, line-to-line, and imbalance type faults and can also include steady state type faults (e.g., those showing wear in the machinery of a load).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 478,599, filed Jun. 13, 2003, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 547,099, filed Feb. 23, 2004, which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to systems and methods for power signal interrupters and more particularly to interrupting or halting the supply of electrical power based on power signal fault conditions.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Certain electrical systems suffer from wear and other types of physical deterioration through use or age. In aircrafts, for example, vibration, moisture, temperature extremes, and improper maintenance may contribute to failure of components in electrical systems, including wiring failures. Loose connections, broken, frayed, and / or exposed wires, may cause arcing which may be the source of electrical ignition in aircraft wirin...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides apparatus and methods for detecting faults or conditions of interest on a power line and generating a response to them, such as to interrupt the signal flow on the power line. This can be used to implement a fault interrupter that can interrupt the signal on a power line by detecting different types of faults and preventing them from causing damage or potentially even starting a fire. The circuitry can detect and isolate power when there is no current escaping to ground or when there is a significant change in the load. The circuitry can also record and later retrieve power signal data and fault history. The invention can be used in various electrical systems, including aircrafts, and is cost-effective and versatile."

Problems solved by technology

When a fault occurs that has no current escaping to ground, the current may be escaping to another line or the impedance of the load may change dramatically resulting in an over-heated condition in the wiring.

For example, a fault in an aircraft can result in a fire or explosion such as when an arc occurs as a result of fault in the vicinity of the aircraft fuel pump or boost pump motors or in the vicinity of systems of other devices where an arc could cause significant damage while in flight.

Images